Outdoor cinemas

Flickerfest
Best for… short attention spans
Now in its 21st year, Flickerfest has a bigger programme than ever in 2012. One hundred local and international dramas, comedies, animations, and docos, each with a run-time of under 30 minutes, will screen at Bondi come January. Be sure to check out special programmes including Greenflicks, which features environmental films, and Flickup – for primary and high school entrants. Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Dr, Bondi Beach 2026. 6–15 Jan, various times. $5–$45.

Ford Focus Moonlight Cinema
Best for… new releases
In Centennial Park you can catch a huge line-up of summer blockbusters alfresco including Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Not keen to slum it in the park? Head for the Gold Grass area to relax on a bean bed with a glass of wine. Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park 2021. From 8 Dec, sunset. $11–$36.

Bondi Openair Cinema
Best for… a pre-film boogie and a scoop
The perfect end to a lazy beach day has to be a film over looking the Bondi foreshore. Before the movie begins catch some live tunes from local bands and if you’re there on a Sunday grab a free scoop of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. This year will feature much-loved classics alongside new releases and themed film nights. Dolphin Lawn, outside Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach 2026. From 29 Jan, 6.30pm. $13.90–$18.

Movies by the Boulevard at Sydney Olympic Park
Best for… free movies
Screening at the Cathy Freeman Park off Olympic Boulevard, this free outdoor cinema will showcase a selection of the best family, action and adventure flicks of 2011 on selected nights in January. Cathy Freeman Park, Sydney Olympic Park 2127. 7–22 Jan, Wed-Sun 6pm for an 8.30pm film. FREE.   

St George Open Air Cinema
Best for… spectacular views
More than just a movie experience, this outdoor cinema is set against one of the most spectacular views in Sydney. The 350 square meter screen is raised from the water with the city lights flickering in the background. Grandstand seating ensures comfort, whilst food and wine bars provide all you need for a great night out. Tickets often sell out in weeks prior, so make sure you snap up your tickets before they go. Mrs Macquarie’s Point, Sydney 2000. From Wed 11 Jan. 

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